Thomas Coy Smith

Thomas Coy Smith, 81, made his final trip home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017, at his home in Watervliet Township. He was born Jan. 2, 1936, in Benton Harbor, the son of Clinton and Mary Jane (Wyman) Smith.

Tom, as he was known by just about everyone, was a graduate of Benton Harbor High School. He served his country honorably in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Army Reserves. He founded Tom Smith Tractor Parts in Hartford in 1965. He was a longtime member of the Hartford Federated Church. He loved tractors, enjoyed the camaraderie of the public and his loyal customers and most recently, movies and Netflix. But his greatest, everlasting love was for his family and close friends.

The family will welcome friends from 5-8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, at the Hartford Federated Church. A celebration of life service to honor his memory will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 18, at the church with the Rev. Ben Williamson officiating. As to Tom’s wishes, cremation will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his name may be made to Caring Circle or to the church. The Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, is assisting the family in their time of need. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

Tom was united in marriage to the former Verna Wolfe on Oct. 16, 1986. She survives, along with four children: Thomas (Lori) Smith, Beth (Butch) Rhode, Kim (Don) Hicks and Kathy (Gil) Jasmin. Also surviving are six grandchildren: Marie (Brian) Schnicke, Lindsay (Eric Clark) Smith, Megan McGlennon, Kimberly (Francis) Aboagye, Sarah Hicks and Jennifer Fields; nine great-grandchildren; a sister, Barbara (John) Weaver; and many nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in passing by his parents.